Kate Whitman said Thursday that she's a young, fresh face who would re-emphasize the Republican Party's core beliefs.

"People are tired of politics as usual in Washington," she told The Associated Press. "As a small businesswoman and mother of two, I will bring a unique perspective that will achieve results."

Whitman, 30, is seeking the seat being vacated by fellow Republican Mike Ferguson. Ferguson announced recently he would not seek re-election in the 7th District next year.

Whitman is executive director of the Republican Leadership Council, co-founded by her mother to promote moderate Republican ideals and candidates.

Kate Whitman said her mom is excited about her decision.

"I grew up believing public service is a calling," she said.

Whitman is married to an executive she met while working on a political campaign in New Hampshire. The couple are the parents of twins, age 2.

Whitman likely will face opposition within her party, triggering a June Republican Primary.

State Sen. Leonard Lance said he is seriously considering running for the seat, and said he will decide soon.

In another New Jersey congressional contest, Republican state Sen. Diane Allen has decided not to seek the open seat in the 3rd District.

"Now is not the time in my life that I feel prepared to fight a Democrat opponent as well as a rouge faction of the Burlington County Republican Party simultaneously," she said in a statement, without elaboration.

Allen was considered a strong candidate to succeed Rep. Jim Saxton, who announced recently that he would not seek a 13th term. His surprise announcement set up a flurry of activity among Burlington County Republicans.

Allen immediately emerged as a strong contender to face off against Democratic state Sen. John Adler, who previously declared his candidacy.